Town booked up for Snow Patrol

EVERY hotel bed in Bangor is booked for this summer´s Snow Patrol concert, it was revealed this week.

Traders have been told to brace themselves for one of the busiest days in the town´s history when an expected 30,000 people head to the town centre.

It has been revealed this week that North Down´s hotel infrastructure has buckled under the weight of demand for the homecoming gig at Ward Park on June 5.

North Down Borough Council tourism chief Christine Mahon said there is even a waiting list in place for hotel accommodation.

The council officer was responding to concerns raised by traders at a special meeting at the Clandeboye Lodge on Friday afternoon.

Boots manager Ruth Storey said, "The Snow Patrol concert is one of the biggest events to be happening in Bangor.

She asked, "What are we doing for it? Is there any advertising geared towards hotel breaks? Are we advertising park and rides etc?"

Mrs Mahon responded, "I’m happy to report that there are no beds left in North Down.

"Every single bed in the borough is booked and there’s even a waiting list. That’s even the case for some of the other events throughout the summer."

Traders should have an agreement for longer opening hours, Mrs Storey told traders and town officials at Friday´s meeting.

"This is a massive opportunity for Bangor," she added. "There’s going to be more people than ever for that weekend. Would all the shops open on Sunday just for that one weekend?"